I am sure that you have asked yourself this question before going to Downtown Disney. This COVID pandemic has affected all of our lives differently. Despite the growing numbers, Downtown Disney has now re-opened during the middle of this pandemic. I’ve gone several times since re-opening and here are my thoughts/observations.
Everyone Wears Masks
Downtown Disney is strict with their safety policies. Every person I have seen there is wearing a mask unless eating or drinking. Cast Members are disbursed throughout the park to enforce these policies. There was one instance where I saw a man talking on a cell phone near the Starbucks with his mask pulled down. Immediately, a Cast Member politely asked him to fully put his mask on, as it was a mandatory rule if you wanted to be in Downtown Disney.
Social Distancing In Line Is Enforced
When you are waiting in line to get in a store, you will notice markers on the ground that separates you and other parties. If you read the markers closely, they tell you to “stand behind the line”. Each party should be standing behind the line. Cast Members will be stationed throughout the line and politely remind you to stay in your space in the event you forget.
Seating Areas Are Marked to Keep Space
When you are tired and want to sit outside, there are big stickers that tell you not to sit in a certain area. These are placed there to keep separation when you are eating or drinking and are stationary.
Multiple Outdoor Handwashing Stations
You will find outdoor hand washing stations placed outside in different areas throughout Downtown Disney. I personally love these and when I see them, I wash my hands. They have hot water, are stocked with soap and paper towels.
Sanitizer Placed In Areas Around the Park
Downtown Disney seems to have upped its sanitizer game, as it’s easily available in numerous areas now. You will find majority of them outside of stores, in highly concentrated areas and by the cashiers inside the store.
COVID Guidelines Posted at the World of Disney Entrance
What You Should Be Aware Of
- People will be touching items. It’s shopping, we want to look at products, check the prices, etc. Be mindful when touching things, to not touch your face and rub your eyes until you’ve washed your hands or sanitized them.
- Inside the store, it’s hard for Cast Members to control everyone, so it is up to you to keep your distance and where your level of comfort is. If an area looks highly busy, take a step back and wait until it clears out.
- Outdoor restaurants are pretty busy. Personally, I am not comfortable sitting outside a full patio with umbrellas. That’s up to me to decide whether or not I wish to put myself in that scenario. Same goes for you. They do their best to keep the tables apart from each other, but ultimately it’s on you to decide what you are comfortable with.
So, Is it Safe?
I think this a more complicated question to answer. As someone who has been going regularly, I think it is. Safety protocols are enforced so well by the Cast Members. I have not felt uncomfortable going and everyone seems to be respectful of following the guidelines. Of course, you run the risk of being exposed at any time that you are out and about and in contact with people. Disney doesn’t deny this either. They have warning signs. As always, stay safe, follow protocols and go at your own risk.
Have you gone to Downtown Disney yet? What are your thoughts and how safe do you feel? Comment below!